[Mind reading + underdogs defying fate + adorable child + everyone dotes on them]
This is a crossover of multiple television dramas. Da Ru becomes empress, appearing mild and unassuming while secretly suppressing every consort she dislikes. She orders her subordinates to torment them openly and behind the scenes until they can take no more and die.
Terrified, low-ranking consorts like Zhen Huan give up palace intrigue and choose to lie flat, allowing Da Ru to wield absolute power.
But they have no idea that even if they stay out of the struggle, they are all destined for tragic deaths.
Until one day, they hear the thoughts of a child.
To Mu Ning: “Mother, the palace has no charcoal to keep us warm through winter? Take me with you to compete for favor. Big Fat Orange likes children.”
To Zhen Huan: “You think avoiding palace intrigue will keep you safe? You have no idea that your entire clan will eventually be exiled.”
To Yan Wan: “You’re still waiting for Ling Yunche? He and the Empress have been flirting for ages. If you don’t attach yourself to imperial power, you’ll suffer endlessly.”
After that, everyone joins forces to fight for power in the palace.
Jing Ning: ? I know the plot, but I can’t talk. How did you all manage to bring Da Ru down?
Mu Ning: Since we’re all doomed to die anyway, I need to bring Zhen Huan, Wei Yanwan, and the others over to my side before they gain a foothold.
